System and Process for Roof Measurement Using Aerial Imagery

ABSTRACT

Processes and systems are disclosed for determining attributes of a roof structure of real-world three-dimensional building(s), including providing computer input field(s) for a user to input location data generally corresponding to the location of the building, providing visual access to a nadir image of a region including the roof structure of the building; on the nadir image of the region, providing a visual marker that is moveable on the computer monitor around the region, the visual marker initially corresponding to the location data but which may be moved to a final location, having location coordinates, on top of the building to more precisely identify the location of the building roof structure; providing a computer input capable of signaling user-acceptance of the final location of the marker; and, providing visual access to one or more oblique images of an aerial imagery database corresponding to location coordinates of the final location.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The present patent application is a continuation of the patentapplication identified by U.S. Ser. No. 12/470,984, filed May 22, 2009,of which the entire content of which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention is in the field of measuring roofing dimensionsand other attributes, and more particularly pertains to the use ofaerial imagery in that field.

BACKGROUND

Roof measuring, for example, dimension, length and areas has been donefor many years, such as in connection with for estimating and biddingroofing jobs. Also, for many years, companies and products have offeredsuch estimation services and reporting software reports using aerialimagery on which roof line outlines are traced, dimensions and areas areautomatically based on those tracings, and vertical elevations (viapitch or otherwise) are included in mathematical models.

The present invention is an improvement on such aerial imagery, systemsand processes, providing non-obvious features that enhance convenience,flexibility, and/or accuracy.

SUMMARY

The claims, and only the claims, define the invention. The presentinvention includes several, but not necessarily all, of creating a firstlayer and a second layer, in computer memory and substantiallyoverlapping at least a segment of line from said first layer with atleast a segment of another line from said second layer, wherein saidfirst non-dimensional attribute is different from said secondnon-dimensional attribute; and/or an interactive computer file, saidinteractive computer file including: length numeric values and at leastone user length field enabling a client with said interactive file tooverride at least one of said length numeric values, where said areaoperator may automatically recalculate area based on said length fieldoverride; and/or, providing at least one computer input field for a userto input first location data generally corresponding to the location ofthe building; on said imagery of an area providing a visual marker thatis moveable on said computer monitor around a region, said markerinitially corresponding to said first location data, wherein said markermay be moved to a final location on top of the building to moreprecisely identify the location of the building roof structure; andproviding a computer input capable of signaling user-acceptance of thefinal location of said marker; and/or other features, optionallycombined in various ways as set forth in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is one example of a flow chart of acts according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is another example of a flow chart of acts according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 is another example of a flow chart of acts according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 4A is one example of a computer screen shot to enter an address.

FIG. 4B is one example of a computer screen shot depicting imagery and amarker based on an address.

FIG. 4C is a computer screen shot like FIG. 4B with the marker movedover a selected building.

FIG. 4D is a computer screen shot and/or reporting confirming selectionof a building.

FIG. 5A is an example of reporting.

FIG. 5B is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 5C is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 5D is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 5E is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 5F is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 5G is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 5H is another example a screen shot and/or of reporting.

FIG. 5I is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 6 is another example of a screen shot and/or reporting.

FIG. 7A is a top plan view of aerial imagery of a building roofstructure.

FIG. 7B is a display of the imagery of FIG. 7A with some optionalfeatures.

FIG. 7C depicts the imagery of FIG. 7A with shadowing.

FIG. 7D depicts FIG. 7C with the addition of computer generated line.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of theinvention, reference will now be made to the examples, sometimesreferred to as embodiments, illustrated and/or described herein. Thoseare mere examples. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitationof the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Such alterations andfurther modifications in the described processes, systems or devices,any further applications of the principles of the invention as describedherein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in theart to which the invention relates, now and/or in the future in light ofthis document.

As used in the claims and the specification, the following terms havethe following definitions:

The term “adjustment roof plane” means a roof plane, having at leastthree border lines, that may be hidden (partially or totally) from viewfrom some or all aerial imagery and which may be included to add to (orsubtract from) an aggregate roof area or other attributes.

The term “aerial imagery” means pictures, normally including photographs(visual light, infrared, color, black and white, or otherwise) takenfrom an overhead view (straight down, oblique, or otherwise) withrespect to a building roof. This may include imagery taken fromairplanes, satellites, balloons, or otherwise.

The term “attributes” means one or more distinguishing or identifyingcharacteristic.

The term “border line” means a line segment, straight, curved, free formor otherwise that generally corresponds with the edge of a roof plane.

The term “building” means a real estate structure, such as for example,a house, condominium, office building, outbuilding, garage, warehouse,factory or otherwise.

The term “client” means a person or entity that orders or obtains anaerial imagery report.

The term “computer input” means data, information and/or signalsprovided by a computer user. This may include numbers, words, mouseclicks, “enter”, check boxes, dialog boxes, and otherwise.

The term “computer monitor” includes any computer screen or other visualoutput, including projectors, flat panel screens, LCD screens, LEDscreens and otherwise that provide visual output from a computer.

The term “computer processing means” means computer hardware andsoftware, including computer memory, microprocessors, computer code andcomputer logic to provide digital computing.

The term “contrast” means discernable relative differences in lightnessand darkness.

The term “deliverable” means that which is or may be delivered to aclient, including printed and/or electronic reports and information.

The term “digital” means using numeric digits, specifically includingbinary digits.

The term “direct proportion” means that one or more variables thatchange as a function as another value in a generally linear function.

The term “dissects” means to sub-divide into two or more parts.

The term “electronic drawing” means to draw lines and/or shapeselectronically via computer. This can include pixel-based drawings,vector-based drawings, and/or otherwise.

The term “field” means a location for computer data input and/or outputof a value having at least one corresponding associated place incomputer memory.

The term “final location” is the relative spot for placing a marker.This normally corresponds to unique latitude and longitude coordinates.

The term “generating” means to make or create.

The term “imagery database” means a computer database containing aerialimagery computer files and the associated location coordinates.

The term “interactive computer file” is a computer file in which a usermay input and/or override one or more numeric values stored in memory aspart of the file.

The term “internet-based imagery” means imagery, such as aerial imagery,which is accessible through an internet access connection. One popularexample is Google® Earth.

The term “latitude and longitude coordinates” mean numeric coordinatesfor a location on the planet corresponding to latitude (east, west) andlongitude (north, south).

The term “layer” means a part of a graphic computer file that visuallyoverlays one or more other parts and which has at least partiallytransparent portions allowing visualizations of parts/layers below it.

The term “lines” means a straight, curved, and/or free form segment.

The term “location data” means information which uniquely identifiesgeographic position. This may include latitude and longitudecoordinates, street addresses and/or otherwise.

The term “non-dimensional attribute” means an attribute other than anumeric value, such as other than length, width, height, or area.

The term “numeric values” means alphanumeric numbers, and/or theirbinary equivalent.

The term “operator” means a mathematical function including, but notlimited to multiplication, division, addition, subtraction, sum,average, square root and/or the foregoing with or without constantand/or co-efficient.

The term “orientation” means the direction of something with respect tosomething else.

The term “outline” means the path or collection of lines generallycoinciding with the outside of a shape.

The term “outline drawing” means drawing of lines around an outline.

The term “over said imagery” means position on top of and in alignmentwith underlying Imagery.

The term “override” means to substitute or replace one value for anothervalue. This may be done with numeric values, non-dimensional attributesand otherwise.

The term “perimeter lines” means a line or lines that outline the outermost edge of a roof structure. This can include, but is not limited to,a roof free edge with a gutter and to a roof free edge without a gutter.

The term “pitch numeric value” is a single numeric value correspondingto the pitch or slope of a portion of roofing.

The term “proportioning” means to increase or decrease the size of aline, outline or other object to directly proportional to the change inanother object.

The term “region” means a location on earth that is depicted in aerialimagery. Ordinarily, it will include at least one entire buildingstructure, and preferably, will include at least some features, such asstreets, trees, or other buildings adjacent the building structure.

The term “report” means one or more pages or screen shots, or both, madeavailable to a user including aerial imagery and/or data from suchimagery. This includes, but is not limited to, one or more interactivecomputer files.

The term “roof flashing edge” means an edge where roofing meets with agenerally vertical structure, such as a wall, typically with flashing.

The term “roof free edge with a gutter” means the unbound edge of a roofwith a rain drainage gutter.

The term “roof free edge without a gutter” means the unbound edge of aroof without a rain drainage gutter.

The term “roof hip” means an edge where two roof planes meet to form agenerally upward sloping ridge.

The term “roof pitch” means the slope of a roof plane. It may beexpressed in angles, ratios, or otherwise. This includes stating therise over run, as well as stating merely the rise in view of an assumedor industry standard run. For example, a slope of 6 inch rise for every12 inch run (horizontal”) may be stated to be a “6” pitch.

The term “roof plane” means a generally planer, segment of a roof.

The term “roof ridge” means an edge where two generally upward slopingroof planes meet.

The term “roof structure” means the top of a building which shelters thebuilding from weather.

The term “roof valley” means an edge where two generally downwardsloping roof planes meet.

The term “street address data” means the location typically used bypostal identification, typically including at least one numeric valueand at least one street name, and further typically including a zip codeor other postal code and/or a town and state or province.

The term “street address look up field” means a computer field for entryof street address data.

The term “substantially overlapping” means that where one line, in wholeor in substantial part, coincides with another line in terms ofdirection and overlap. This may include situations where the respectivelines are of substantially different length, or not.

The term “substituent triangles” means two or more congruent triangleswhich collectively form a subset of another geometric shape.

The term “tracing” means drawing around an outline or along a line orfeature depicted in Imagery.

The term “user-acceptance” means an affirmative step or series of stepsor computer input, undertaken by user to make a selection.

The term “vector direction” means, in relative space, either twodimensionally or three dimensionally where a vector is pointing.

The term “visual marker” is a shape, pointer, label, icon, avatar orother indicator which is movable or displayable on a computer screen andwhich may be visually differentiated from other objects on the computerscreen.

The term “visually depicting” means to show or illustrate something on acomputer monitor as a graphical image.

Articles and phases such as, “the”, “a”, “an”, “at least one”, and “afirst”, are not limited to mean only one, but rather are inclusive andopen ended to also include, optionally, two or more of such elements.

The language used in the claims is to only have its plain and ordinarymeaning, except as explicitly defined above. Such plain and ordinarymeaning is inclusive of all consistent dictionary definitions from themost recently published Webster's dictionaries and Random Housedictionaries.

Referring to the drawing figures, these are only examples of theinvention, and the invention is not limited to what is shown in thedrawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to FIG. 1, a process for determining attributes of a roofstructure 501 (see FIGS. 4B, 4C) of a real-world three-dimensionalbuilding 500 may optionally comprise several acts. This may includeviewing on a computer monitor 100 in digital aerial imagery 1 of aregion 502 (see FIGS. 4B, 4C) including the roof structure 501.Ordinarily, the roof structure will have one or more roof planes, andunless the roof is a simple single-plane roof, will have at least two ormore roof planes. In FIG. 1, the act of creating of a first layerdrawing 2 is undertaken. Such act may be used by the ultimate end-userenabled by the software, but optionally and more preferably is done by acommercial vendor based on an order placed by a user. Such order may beplaced by telephone, on-line, such as on computer screen 100 as shown inFIGS. 4A-4D, by mail, email or otherwise.

The creation of the first line drawing 2 may be done a multitude ofways, in one example is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5I and FIG. 6, discussedfurther below. Likewise, in FIG. 1 creating a second layer drawing 3 isanother act. For example, in FIG. 5D, various roof planes are denoted byletters A-P. For example, the roof plane 515 denoted by the letter “0”may be drawn in a second layer, whereas roof plane 516 indicated by theletter “D” may be in a first layer. In such example, roof plane 515 androof plane 516 have substantially overlapping segments 4 (see FIG. 1).For example, along the upper edge of plane 515 appears the number “5”denoting a five foot 20 line; whereas, plane 516 has the substantiallyoverlapping line denoted by “7” indicating a seven foot line segment ofroof plane 516. Such seven foot roof segment of plane 516 may comprise aperimeter line (part of the 56.78 feet perimeter length of plane Ddepicted in table 520 of report 550 of FIG. 5I); whereas, thesubstantially overlapping five foot length of plane 515 may comprise asecond non-dimensional attribute, namely flashing, such as step flashingline (part of the 37.01 feet of step flashing for plane 0 depicted intable 521 of FIG. 5I). Accordingly, this is one example of substantiallyoverlapping lines such as segment of line A and segment of line E setforth in the claims, each having respective first and secondnon-dimensional attributes. This allows for separate reporting of suchnon-dimensional attributes, such as the length of perimeter, the lengthof step flashing or otherwise. Such non-dimensional attributes may be ofany type. As mere examples that have use in the roofing industry includethe non-dimensional attributes of roof ridge, roof hip, roof valley,roof flashing edge, perimeter line, roof free edge with a gutter, androof free edge without a gutter. For example, line 510 a in FIG. 6 is anexample of a roof ridge, whereas line 511 a and line 513 a are eachexamples of a roof valley. Line 512 a in FIG. 6 is an example of aperimeter edge, which also happens to comprise a roof free edge withouta gutter. Optionally, while not illustrated, if line 512 a had, or wereto have, a gutter along it, then it would be in that case a perimeterline and be a roof free edge with a gutter. FIG. 6. also depicts anoptional table and/or fields showing the non-dimensional attributes at507 and the total 15 values for them at 508. This can include the areaof roofing 509, the linear ridge feet 510, linear valley feet 511,starter/perimeter linear feet 512, step flashing 513, and/or others.

Another optional feature is computer processing means for calculating avector direction corresponding to roof pitch for a roof plane.Optionally, this may be based on at least one of said non-dimensionalattributes of roof plane outline lines and their orientation. Suchcomputer processing means typically includes computer logic and/or codewith a set of rules to establish such vector. Examples of such vectorare shown in FIG. 5E. Specifically, they are preferably shown as arrows.In the illustrated example, they are ordinarily indicated as arrowspointing in the downward direction, corresponding to the downwarddirection of rain flow. Optionally, there may be other illustrations,including an upwardly directed arrow, although this is not preferred.For example, vector 516 d is shown in a downwardly directed arrow with anumber 6 next to it. This depicts the vector corresponding roof plane516, namely plane D previously discussed. As seen, the value “6” for thepitch is entered at field 516 c in the table also showing the area (forthat particular roof plane D at field 516 a) 357.93 sq. ft. as shown atfield 516 b. Note further with respect to roof plane 515 (plane “0”) asillustrated in the table at field 515 a, it likewise has a roof pitchof'6″ shown at 515 c. The total area of roof plane “0” is 111.35 sq. ft.in this particular example, as shown at 515 b.

An example of computer programming to determine pitch direction is asfollows.

1.) Pitch will run towards a perimeter line. If only one perimeter linepitch goes towards the perimeter (most standard roofs, all but the endsof hips);

2.) If there are multiple perimeters that are not parallel, look forridge. If there is only a single ridge line and it is parallel to one ofthe perimeter lines, pitch runs from the ridge towards the perimeter.(Perimeters that are not straight and have small outcroppings where theroof extends further down the same slope).

3.) If a shape has no multiple perimeters and multiple ridges where noneare parallel, take an average of the ridge angles and see if thatdirection is perpendicular to a perimeter line. If so, that direction isthe direction of the pitch. (The end of hip roofs).

Most planes are resolved by the above acts, 2 and/or 3. Acts 4 and 5,below, are also optional but preferred, and address totally enclosedroof planes which most standard roofs do not have.

4.) If there are no perimeter lines and a single ridge line, the pitchis from the ridge.

5.) If there are no perimeter lines and multiple ridge lines, oncefinding the pitch for all other shapes look at the ridges and the sharedshapes. If the shared shape has a pitch directly away (is perpendicular)from the shared ridge, use that ridge as if it were 2 (from above). Ifthe other pitch goes at an angle to the ridge, look at other ridges.

The case where you can make it past act 5 and not have pitch directionis for completely enclosed shapes where all sides are valleys at theintersection of multiple planes, set forth in this optional act:

6.) take the average slope of all other planes connected via sharedlines and average the slope direction of the planes, whose pitch runsinto the plane in question; use that direction as the pitch directionfor the plane.

Variations on that logic, including changing the order, and/or combiningor splitting acts, may optionally be used. For example, rather thanbeginning with logic looking to run pitch towards a perimeter, the logiccould begin to look to first run the pitch vector away from a ridgeline, although this is less preferred.

As illustrated in report 550 as seen in FIG. 5E, the visual depiction ofpitch vectors, such as 516 d may help visualize the shape, orientation,pitches of the roof structure and/or roof planes.

Optionally, one or more deliverables to the client include one or morereports such as report 550. Report 550 may include one or more of thefeatures as depicted in the various drawings of FIGS. 5A-5I and/or FIG.6 and/or FIGS. 7A-7D, alone or combination.

Optionally, such report may be printed on a piece of paper, or providedon a non-interactive computer file such as a .pdf (Adobe® Acrobat®) typeimage or otherwise, illustrated on a computer screen for the user toprint out (web based or otherwise) and/or delivered on recordable mediasuch USB drive, floppy disk, CD, DVD, email attachment or otherwise.However, preferably, such file is delivered as an interactive computerfile. For example, referring again to FIG. 5E, the pitch value as shownin the table, such as the 6 pitch for plane D and 516 c allows theperson, the end-user or otherwise, to enter at least one pitch numericvalue. This pitch numeric value may correspond to roof pitch of the roofplane. Hence, in FIG. 5E, one or more of the pitch values in computerfields corresponding to the table, may be empty or null. They may allowa person, such as an end user, to data input via their computer, thepitch value. For example, this may be based on the end user, or one oftheir agents, taking field measurements of the roof to provide theinput. As such, value 516 c may be entered to be “6” corresponding to a6 pitch (e.g., 6″ vertical rise for every 12″ of horizontal run). Suchvalue “6” may be changed, updated, or overridden.

As can be appreciated in three-dimensional geometry, given the shape ofplane D (516) the value of the pitch ordinarily will affect the overallarea of such roofing (see e.g. FIG. 5F, area value 516 b).

Mathematical equations demonstrating-area relationship for a sloped,rectangular roof plane are known, an example of which is set forthbelow:

Area=W×Z

Z=square root of: (X ² +Y ²)

Where:

W=width

X=horizontal run

Y=vertical rise

Z=hypotenuse of X-Y-Z right triangle.

Other, geometries may be calculated using known math, coefficientsand/or tables. See for example: Miller, Mark; Miller's Guide to Roofing(2005) ISBN 0-07-145144-7. Thus, in combination with the perimetermeasurements supplied with the report based on the creation of roofplane D from the imagery, the addition of the roof pitch value may leadto the calculation such as in the example 357.93 sq. ft. shown at 516 b.Likewise, for plane 0, the value of “6” may be entered in the table at515 c to arrive at the area calculation 515 b as previously described.It should be appreciated, that optionally these pitch values may beprovided by the end user or other persons based on field measurement.However, optionally, they also may be based on measurements and/orcomputer calculations precisely, by estimate or otherwise, such as byviewing oblique imagery such as region image 502 shown in FIG. 4B. Insuch case, for example, a vendor may provide default values (and/orabsolute values) for the pitch and the table shown at FIG. 5E. In aninteractive computer file with such fields being interactive, and withoperators to calculate area taking into account pitch, preferably partof said file, even with such default values based on oblique imagery theend user would be free to override them, such as for example if theydetermine that field measurements indicate a different pitch.

Another optional feature may include other attributes deliverable to theclient including an interactive computer file. For example, the lengthvalues of lines forming an outline of a drawing may be overridden. Forexample, referring again to 5D, a reference line 514 is depicted. Inthis one example, it is depicted in the parenthetical quote (“R”),although this is not required. In such case, it is denoted “26”corresponding to 26 ft. in length. Note that all dimensions in this casemay be converted to or express in metric, rather than English units,although for purpose of illustration English dimensions are utilizedhere.

In such case, even thought the referenced dimension 26 is based onscaling that line off of the imagery, such as imagery 506 (see FIG. 6;FIG. 5C) there is an opportunity for greater precision. Such interactivecomputer file, for example, in the report page shown at FIG. 5D, thevalue 26 depicted there in connection with the reference may actually bethe location of a data entry field. In such case, the field operator maydetermine that the precise measurements are not 26 feet, but rather are26.15 feet. In such case, the user operator may enter in their computerby typing in the value “26.15” the reference line field, therebyoverriding it from 26 to 26.15 in this hypothetical. In such case, theinteractive computer file may use co-efficient and other ratios toproportion (by multiplication or otherwise) some, or preferably, each ofthe other lines of an outline in direct proportion to the plane fieldoverride. While the foregoing is mentioned in terms of the referencedmentioned 514, optionally the interactive computer file may providemultiple reference directions and/or all line values in their reportmay, optionally, be interactive and override fields. As mere examples,in FIG. 5D this could include fields for 510 a, 511 a, 512 a and/orotherwise, including without limitation most or all numeric values.

Moreover, while not illustrated, optional report 550 may include aseparate table and/or field entry point apart from the drawing of thebuilding roof structure 501 in which the reference line may beoverridden instead or, or in addition to, fields directly overlying theaerial imagery and/or the drawn lines.

Optionally, but preferably, in addition to the length of the other linesbeing proportionally recalculated, likewise the area values, such asdepicted in the area column of the table at FIG. 5E as well as the areavalues on FIG. 5F and/or FIG. 6 (see the total roofing area value 509 of4096.95 sq. ft. may be automatically recalculated. This may be done in aseparate application, in the interactive computer file (including withembedded operators), both or otherwise.

Various area calculations used in connection with computer dataprocessing means are available based on known geometry. These couldinclude things as simple as multiplying length times width of a singlerectangle. They also may include modifying such area to take intoaccount the additional area generated by pitch, as previously discussed.However, while not limited to this, preferably, taking advantage of thepixilated imagery that may be used, one optional feature in determiningone or more areas of the respective roof planes is as follows. If youknow the points (corners) of the shape and can order them in a clockwise(or optionally, counter-clockwise) fashion following the perimeter oroutline of the shape, then the following algorithm can apply. Startingat the first endpoint, 0 (zero), while N+1 is less than the totalordered end points take the triangle made by the 3 points 0, N, and N−Iand compute the area of the triangle created, which is done by the dotproduct method using vectors created by going from 0 to N and 0 to N+I.Add this area to a running sum.

Note that when the three ordered endpoints are not in the proper order(they create a convex perimeter or outline of the shape that reduces theoverall area as opposed to adding to), the dot product method of findingthe area will return a (−) negative area which subtracts from theoverall area in the running sum.

Dot product (2-Dimensional Vectors) can be expressed in the equation:

uv=u ₁ v ₁ +u ₂ v ₂

This can be used to find the area of the square that the two vectorsproduce. Dividing the result by two (2) gives the area of the trianglethe two vectors produce.

Thus, in this way an example is provided of computer data processingmeans that dissects the outlines of the roof planes into substituenttriangles and calculates the area of such triangles. The areas areaggregated to provide the area of respective roof planes, and the areasof such respective roof planes may in turn be aggregated (summed) toarrive at the total area of the roof structure. Examples of this areshown in the table in FIG. 5F and/or table 517 in FIG. 5H. Note also inFIG. 5H the report 550 may also include other tables and information,such as ridge length table 518 and/or valley length table 519.

Hence, in FIG. 2, aerial imagery 1 is used and perimeter drawings aroundroof planes are acts. Thereafter, one or more interactive computer filesare delivered 6. The user may enter values in the interactive computerfile 7, such as pitch, length, or otherwise as discussed. This mayresult in the act of updating the report 8.

Another optional feature is to provide for user acceptance of the finallocation of a roof structure. One optional way to do this is to providean internet based interface for the customer/user. One example of suchis shown in FIGS. 4A-4D. For example, in FIG. 4A, computer screen 100provides a place to enter an address, such as field 102 for addressentry (denoted by label 101). In the illustrated example, the streetaddress “1710 Strand Ave, Tybee Island, Ga. 31328” may be entered infield 102 of the computer. The user may enter by clicking or otherwisebutton 103 to find that address. In response, computer screen 100 mayappear like FIG. 4B. As such, it may depict imagery 502 of a region, theregion including building 500 with its roof structure 501. Ordinarily,this includes not only the building structure 500, but also depictsadjacent buildings, trees, streets, and/or other features. Such imagerymay come from a variety of places. One example could be Google® Earthimagery database which is web based and provides address locationinformation. Such imagery covers much of the world, although it may ormay not be comparatively low resolution imagery. In FIG. 5B, marker 106a is shown in the region 502, corresponding to the street address infield 102. Note further that while marker 106 a is close to roofstructure 501, it does not directly or perfectly correspond to roofstructure 501. As such, the customer or other user may be allowed tomove the marker (by click and dragging via computer mouse, arrows, orotherwise) to a final location 106 b as depicted in FIG. 4C. Such finallocation is on top of the building 500 and such movement more preciselyidentifies the location of the building roof structure 501 to bemeasured. Optionally, in FIG. 4C when said marker has been moved tofinal location 106 b, the user may activate a selection confirmation,such as confirm selection button 104, enter, checkbox or otherwise.Optionally, to potentially start over the user may be afforded theoption of hitting the cancel button 105 or merely logging off. However,if confirmed selection button 104 or other such user acceptance isactivated, another screen (and/or report) optionally may be provided,such as screen 100 as depicted in FIG. 4D. While this may be a widevariety in the formats, in the one example provided, some or all of theregional image 502 a may be depicted showing the marker in its finallocation 106 b. Also, a checkbox may be providing a furtherreconfirmation that the users reviewed the image is correct. In thisway, the end user/customer will be sure that when placing an order, thevendor is measuring the correct roof structure as opposed to, forexample, measuring the nearby roof structure due tomistake/miscommunication. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 4D, fields maydepict the address to be measured 108, the city 109, the state 110, thepostal code 111, and otherwise. Optionally, a drop down box 112 may beprovided corresponding to the number of planes ordered. Additionally,other options, such as rush processing 113 or other special features maybe provided. Also optionally, a reference number or other such jobnumber field 114 or claim number field 115 and/or other fields may beavailable. Thus, for example, a roofer having a job number and/orbidding pursuant to an insurance claim number and/or an insurancecompany doing the same may optionally enter data therein. When they doso, optionally, such reference numbers and/or claim numbers may bereprinted or otherwise depicted on the deliverables to the client, suchas report 550. This provides convenience to the end user/customer inthat they may cross reference their deliverable report to their internalcalendaring, docketing, invoicing, and/or job number system.

Also with reference to FIG. 4D, computer screen 100 and/or the reportsmay also depict latitude references and/or longitude referencescorresponding to the street address and/or more precisely to the finallocation 106 b of the marker confirmed by the end user. Again,optionally, such latitude and longitude coordinates may be reflected inone or more of the reports.

Such translation to latitude and longitude coordinates also providesanother optional feature. The present system and method may optionallyinclude two or more separate imagery databases. For example, a lowerresolution and/or less expensive image database such Google® Earth maybe used as a first database, whereas a higher quality, higher resolutionand/or more robust image database, such as by Pictometry International(as depicted here) may be used. Other vendors of imagery databases maybe used and/or one may use their own image database(s). Thus, bytranslating the street address stated in longitude and latitude, it iseasier to correlate to the second database. In this way, first imagerydatabase from which the final location is selected may be internet basedimagery having to corresponding street address look up field. Onlyfurther using the latitude and longitude coordinates to access imageryfrom a second imagery database, such as for example Pictometry'sdatabase. Thereafter, using the imagery from the second database cangenerate in computer memory outline drawings around outlinescorresponding to roof planes based on tracing from imagery from saidsecond imagery database. Such outline drawings may include drawings suchas depicted in FIGS. 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G and/or FIG. 6 and/or 7B-D forexample. Additionally, since the first imagery database may merely bestraight down, or plan views, whereas the second imagery may include avariety of oblique images, such as image 502 and 503 in FIG. 5A and/oroblique imagery 504 and 505 in FIG. 5B, as well as diagonal, top downimagery such as image 506 in FIG. 5C. This allows the optional, morecomplete image reporting to the client in report 505.

Such oblique imagery also permits the optional feature, as previouslydiscussed, determining vertical measurements and/or roof pitches basedon the imagery, as opposed to based on field measurements. Conversely,one can undertake this without any oblique imagery and/or anydetermination of vertical measurements or pitch, and instead rely onfield measurements or other means for pitch.

In FIG. 3, the location data 4A is entered. Aerial imagery with a markeris provided 4B. A person moves the marker on the image of the building4C. User acceptance of that marker position is then signaled 104 b.

Mere examples of other optional features are depicted in FIGS. 7A and7B. A simplified diagrammatic image of building 700 includes roofstructure 701. While several roof planes are illustrated, the particularfocus is directed to roof planes 715 and 716. As illustrated in FIG. 7B,a first electronic drawing (preferably in a first layer of the drawing)is made over the imagery comprising lines A, Band C. Moreover, a secondelectronic drawing (preferably, but not necessarily, in a second layerof the drawing) is made over to imagery comprising lines E, F, G and H.Note that in this illustrated example, at least a segment of line A issubstantially overlapping with at least a segment of line E. Thus, forexample, roof plane 715 outlined by E, F, G and H may comprise a flatroof (0 pitch) porch whereas the remainder of the roof structure 701 maycomprise a hip roof over a rectangular house, the hip roof beingdepicted in a plan view with two triangles and two isosceles rhombuses,as shown.

Note further that FIG. 7B preferably is depiction of a deliverable, suchas a report (and/or a screen shot), and optionally and more preferablyis part of an interactive computer file. In this regard, it may include,optionally, table 720 and/or 721, as well as any of the other tablesand/or fields and/or features previously depicted in the previousdrawings. For example, table 721 includes at least columns with a lineand a column for the attribute, which preferably in this context is thenon-dimensional attribute. Note in the example of these substantiallyoverlapping lines A and E, A has the attribute of being a gutter freeedge, whereas E has the attribute label “common”.

In this regard, the label “common” also corresponds to Line E′ inconnection with roof plane 717′ illustrated in isolation as roof plane717. Other terms may be used instead of “common”, but this indicationdenotes two lines that are substantially overlapping and in which themain purpose of the line is merely for dissecting a common roof plane,normally for determining square feet area, as opposed to anon-dimensional attribute. This is because such “common” lines, in asense, are imaginary between roof plane 715 and roof plane 717′ and/or717. Alternatively, in the context of this building the attribute ofline E could be “flashing” (instead of line Y being flashing) based onthe reasonable assumption that this flat planed porch roof abuts theside of the building and has roof flashing along line Y. However, insuch situation by denoting line E as flashing, in lieu of line Y, sincethey are of common length, this is merely a substitute for the totallinear estimate of flashing of the type illustrated, for example at 513(FIG. 20 6) and/or table 521 (FIG. 5I).

Plane 716 illustrates a minimum number of three lines, A, Band C, todenote the area of plane 716. Conversely, note that plane 715 includesnot only three lines, lines E, F and G, but also a fourth line, line Hsince it is rectilinear. This is consistent with the claiming of thepresent invention being open-ended in that at least three lines arerequired to define a roof plane, but it may be more. Likewise, a planemay be defined by 5, 6, 7 or more lines depending on its particulargeometry.

As mentioned, it is not required, but is preferable that the linesdefining the respective plane 715 and 716 are separate from each other,and even more preferable that they be in separate computer file layersoverlaying one another. This helps facilitate having differingattributes along a common line as previously described in connectionwith the substantial overlap of lines A and E. Optionally, in the reportthe lines may be shown in different colors (and/or patterns) designatedfor each non-dimensional attribute.

Moreover, one or more additional adjustment planes, such as adjustmentplane 717 prime, also depicted as free standing adjustment plane 717 mayoptionally be provided. This allows generating computer memory at leastone adjustment roofing plane, such as by drawing lines E′, X, Y and Z(as well as others). This is useful for a variety of situations, suchas, for example, to adjust for portions of the roof structure which arenot fully visible from the aerial imagery. This is shown in FIGS. 7A and7B in that due to the overhanging eve of the hip roof of the house inplane 716, part of the porch's roof structure is hidden by theoverhanging roof hang. This hidden portion is depicted by roof plane717′ and/or 717.

It should also be noted that optionally, this adjustment plane does notnecessarily have to be graphically depicted, as shown in FIG. 7B.Rather, or in addition, an additional numeric field 20 may be provided.For example, in FIG. 5F, the planes A-P are shown with their respectiveareas, and in some total of such areas. In this context, with or withouta graphical depiction, an additional “plane” row may be provided denoted“adjustment” or otherwise with a numeric field allowing user entry of anarea (square foot or otherwise) number be typed in or otherwiseimported. Thus, the adjustment plane 717 (FIG. 7B) even if notgraphically depicted, might have known dimensions of, for example, 20feet wide, with a two foot pitch overhand, resulting in an additional 40feet of area. In this situation, in the adjustment field the user mightsimply enter the value “40” in square footage terms for the adjustmentfield. This adjustment field will be added to the sum total, such asshown in the table of FIG. 5E. Note also that the adjustment value maybe negative for a variety of reasons, given the user the ability tooverride and reduce the total estimation of square footage for reasonsof discounting, or other circumstances.

Thus, for example, in FIG. 7B at table 21, it is denoted in that tableas plane 717 with corresponding area of 40 square feet may correspond toa report that it is 20 feet wide (line E prime times 2 feet deep underthe eaves, lines X and/or Z, thereby resulting in the calculation of 40square feet. Or, as described above, alternatively with or withoutgraphic depiction of plane 717, the user might simply enter the value“40” square feet in the area field of table 721.

FIGS. 7C and 7D, using the same structure of 7A and 7B, illustratesanother feature which is optional, and may be used alone, or inconnection with one or more of the features previously described. Inparticular, it provides for a computer data processing means thatidentifies light and dark contrast between adjacent roof planes, such asroof planes 716 and 718, and based on that automatically generates atleast one border line, such as for example line 719 shown in FIG. 7Dbetween such roof plane 716 and 718. In this regard, note that asillustrated in FIGS. 7C and D, roof plane 716 is shown as shaded. Thisrepresented in imagery of shadowing, typically caused by sun or otherlighting casting different degrees of shadow in brightness and darknessdepending on the orientation of the roof plane with the source of thelight. The generation of various lines, such as line 719, isautomatically computer generated. This may be done by a variety oftechniques borrowed from the separate field of computer face recognitionused in connection with digital images such as for security purposes.This may be done to create some or all of the line values, or morepreferably at least starting point default lines drawing by thecomputer. However, optionally the default generation of the lines can bedone after perimeter lines P, around the entire outer perimeter of theroof structure 701, having drawn ordinarily by a human user. This hasthe advantage of establishing a closed, finite area within the regionfor which the computer software automatically generates one or more ofthe lines separating the geometries of the separate roof planes.Preferably, this is done by generating and labeling discreet lines whichmay be overridden by the user, such as deleting extraneous or erroneousor duplicative lines and/or moving them. Moreover, optionally such linesmay be generated as the subparts of geometric shapes set as presumptivedefault shapes common in roof planes. This normally would includerectangles, triangles and rhombuses.

Additionally, such automatic and/or default generation of lines mayoptionally be coupled with the previously described pitch generationalgorithms. In this way, default pitches may be generated by thecomputer and depicted in the report output. Again, this can beoverridden by the user, including the vendor of such report information.

Note also that in FIG. 7A-7D, the various lettered lines (A, B, C, E, F,G, H), are illustrated here slightly offset from the actual underlyingline in the building imagery. In practice, preferably so as to maximizeaccuracy, there is not such offset. Rather, the offset is depicted herein FIG. 7A-D merely for drawing clarity to separately depict the line inthe aerial image from the computer drawn line overlaying the image.

Another optional feature is that the information, including reporting,may be made to interface electronically (and/or manually) with otherproducts. For example, the information provided here may be uploaded ortransferred to Xactimate™ Insurance estimating software known in theprior art. Naturally, this feature, while helpful, is not required.

What is claimed:
 1. A process for determining attributes of a roofstructure of a real-world three-dimensional building, comprising theacts of: providing at least one computer input field for a user to inputfirst location data generally corresponding to the location of thebuilding; providing visual access to a nadir image of a region includingthe roof structure of the building corresponding to said first locationdata; on the nadir image of the region, providing a visual marker thatis moveable on a computer monitor around said region, said visual markerinitially corresponding to said first location data, wherein said visualmarker may be moved to a final location on top of the building to moreprecisely identify the location of the building roof structure, thefinal location having location coordinates; providing a computer inputcapable of signaling user-acceptance of the final location of saidmarker; and, providing visual access to one or more oblique images of anaerial imagery database corresponding to location coordinates of thefinal location.
 2. The process of claim 1 and wherein said firstlocation data comprised street address data, and wherein said locationcoordinates of said final location are translated to latitude andlongitude coordinates.
 3. The process of claim 2 and wherein said imagecorresponding to the first location data is from a first imagerydatabase from which said final location is selected and isinternet-based imagery having a corresponding street address look upfield, and wherein the aerial imagery database is a second imagerydatabase, and further comprising the act of: using said latitude andlongitude coordinates to access imagery from the second imagerydatabase.
 4. The process of claim 3 and further comprising the act of:generating, in computer memory, outline drawings around outlinescorresponding to roof planes based on tracing from said imagery fromsaid second imagery database.
 5. The process of claim 4 and wherein saidproviding acts are provided over an internet interface.
 6. The processof claim 5 and further comprising the act of: providing a printed reportthat includes an aerial image of the building roof structure.
 7. Theprocess of claim 1 and further comprising the act of: generating, incomputer memory, outline drawings around outlines corresponding to roofplanes based on tracing from said imagery.
 8. The process of claim 1 andwherein said providing acts are provided over an internet interface. 9.The process of claim 1 and further comprising the act of: providing aprinted report that includes an aerial image of the building roofstructure.
 10. The process of claim 9 and wherein the printed reportincludes a latitude reference and/or a longitude reference correspondingto the location of the building roof structure.
 11. The process of claim1, wherein the user is a customer.
 12. The process of claim 1, whereinthe user is a commercial vendor.
 13. The process of claim 1, furthercomprising providing visual access to the one or more images of theaerial imagery database corresponding to the final location data.
 14. Anon-transient computer memory storing computer logic, that when executedby computer hardware causes the computer hardware to determineattributes of a roof structure of a real-world three-dimensionalbuilding by: providing at least one computer input field for a user toinput first location data generally corresponding to the location of thebuilding; providing visual access to a nadir image of a region includingthe roof structure of the building corresponding to said first locationdata; on the nadir image of the region, providing a visual marker thatis moveable on a computer monitor around said region, said visual markerinitially corresponding to said first location data, wherein said visualmarker may be moved to a final location on top of the building to moreprecisely identify the location of the building roof structure, thefinal location having location coordinates; providing a computer inputcapable of signaling user-acceptance of the final location of saidmarker; and, providing visual access to one or more oblique images of anaerial imagery database corresponding to location coordinates of thefinal location.
 15. The non-transient computer memory of claim 14,wherein said first location data comprised street address data, andwherein said location coordinates of said final location are translatedto latitude and longitude coordinates.
 16. The non-transient computermemory of claim 15, wherein said nadir image corresponding to the firstlocation data is from a first imagery database from which said finallocation is selected and is internet-based imagery having acorresponding street address look up field, and wherein the aerialimagery database is a second imagery database, and wherein said computerlogic when executed by computer hardware causes the computer hardwareto: use said latitude and longitude coordinates to access imagery fromthe second imagery database.
 17. The non-transient computer memory ofclaim 16, wherein said computer logic when executed by computer hardwarecauses the computer hardware to: generate, in computer memory, outlinedrawings around outlines corresponding to roof planes based on tracingfrom said imagery from said second imagery database.
 18. Thenon-transient computer memory of claim 17, wherein said computer logicwhen executed by computer hardware causes the computer hardware to:provide a printed report that includes an aerial image of the buildingroof structure.
 19. The non-transient computer memory of claim 14,wherein said computer logic when executed by computer hardware causesthe computer hardware to: generate, in computer memory, outline drawingsaround outlines corresponding to roof planes based on tracing from saidimagery.
 20. The non-transient computer memory of claim 14, wherein saidproviding acts are provided over an internet interface.